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December 4, 2013 -- Sophos supports the campaign launched by Action Fraud, the City of London Police and Get Safe Online today to warn UK consumers to take extra care when shopping for tablets, games consoles, electrical items and other Christmas gifts online.

Nick Bray, Sophos CFO, said "As the UK's leading cyber security company, we are both delighted and proud to support the government in this and other cyber security initiatives. Improving cyber security is a national imperative and Sophos, established for twenty eight years and UK headquartered, is committed to working with both government and industry to ensure this happens."

Fraudsters conned consumers out of more than 12m over Christmas last year through online shopping and auction scams and record numbers are expected to log-on for Christmas shopping this year.

Action Fraud, Get Safe Online and the City of London Police (who run the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau) encourage online shoppers to be especially careful when using new websites and sites that offer deals that look too good to be true.

They offer the following simple tips to keep fraudsters at bay this Christmas.

1. Trust your instincts - if an offer looks too good to be true it usually is. Legitimate popular technology and designer items are rarely discounted.
2. Check the URL in the web browser. Don't be fooled by spoof websites where the address is slightly different.
3. Ensure the website address begins 'https' at the payment stage - this indicates a secure payment.
4. Don't access links in unsolicited emails, always type in the website address or use a search engine to find a site.
5. Only deal with reputable sellers - only use sites you know or ones that have been recommended to you.
6. Avoid paying by money transfers direct to people you don't know. Use an online payment option such as PayPal, which helps to protect you.
7. Watch out for pop-ups appearing asking you to confirm your card details before you are on the payment stage. Never enter your PIN number online.
8. If your bid for an online auction item is unsuccessful, don't be tempted to trade off-site if another seller approaches you with a similar item. This is likely to be a scam and you won't be covered.
9. Keep security software and firewalls up-to-date. Regularly update your internet browser when a new patch (security update) is released.
10. Keep receipts and check these against your statement - if you spot a transaction you did not authorise speak to your card company immediately.

Sophos is also supporting the government's launch in January of a new campaign to increase public and small and medium enterprises confidence online by helping them to adopt simple changes to their online behaviour.